Energy Saving Choices

Lighting accounts for approximately 12% of the average household’s energy bill and energy-efficient options help you save money. Families can save between $50 and more than $100 a year by just changing their bulbs. Plus, there are more than 4 billion screw-based sockets in the U.S., which means you can save more than $10 billion per year. Traditional incandescents waste energy and money by using 90% of electricity to produce heat instead of light. Yet, with numerous energy-efficient bulb options, you can make smart lighting choices. There are three main types of energy-efficient bulbs: Halogen incandescents, CFLs and LEDs.

Halogen Incandescents:

These look like traditional incandscent bulbs, but use 25% to 30% less energy on average and can last up to three times longer than the older versions. A more efficient halogen incandescent for about $1.50 each saves you about $3 per bulb over its lifetime.

Compact Flourescent Lamps (CFLs):

CFLs represent the best value for consumers today. They use about 75% less energy than standard incandescent bulbs and last up to 10 times longer. If you buy a CFL in a multi-pack for $2.00 or less – you can save up to $50 over the bulb’s lifetime. Click here to learn more about CFLs

Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs):

LEDs are another option that have the potential to last up to 22 years and save 75% or more in energy costs; however, currently, their upfront cost is steeper than other alternatives. LEDs will save you tons of money over their long 25-year lifetime, especially when the volume of sales go up and the initial purchase price decreases. Click here to learn more about LEDs